Distracted Driving Awareness and DUI Checkpoints Over Memorial Day Weekend

 Posted on May 23,2017 in DUI

This Memorial Day weekend will be a triple threat for Illinois residents. There will be more DUI checkpoints and seatbelt checkpoints, which could ultimately result in a sobriety test. It is also distracted driving awareness week, and officers are already cracking down on drivers using their cellphones while behind the wheel. Learn more about how to protect yourself this weekend, and what you can do if you or someone you love falls victim to one of these extra measures.

Play It Extra Safe

Most drivers know their limits. They wait until they can drive safely, or they call a cab or assign a designated driver to avoid driving while intoxicated. Unfortunately, with more DUI checkpoints, drivers may be more likely to receive a sobriety test. News reporters have found this test to be difficult, even for sober people. If you fail, you may be asked to take a breathalyzer. If the machine is improperly calibrated or used incorrectly and you have had just one drink, you could find yourself behind bars for the night.

Our advice is to play it extra safe. If possible, do not drive after you have had a drink. Call a driver instead. If that is not feasible, then wait longer than you normally would before driving. If you are arrested, know your rights, including your right to have an attorney by your side. Equally important is remembering to exercise your right to remain silent.

Put Your Cellphone Away and Wear Your Seatbelt

With all the extra checkpoints, there is no reason to draw extra attention to yourself. Wear your seatbelt, even for short trips, and put your cellphone away. If you cannot resist the temptation of answering a ringing phone, turn it off while you are driving. If you need your phone for navigation, connect it to your car’s Bluetooth or turn it on speaker. In short, do not give an officer any additional reasons to pull you over and check you this holiday weekend.

Contact Our Experienced Arlington Heights Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you or someone you love is arrested for a DUI this weekend, contact Scott F. Anderson, Attorney at Law, for assistance. Backed by more than 25 years of experience, our Arlington Heights DUI defense lawyer will fight for you. We will protect your rights and aggressively pursue the most favorable outcome possible. Our attorney can also assist with traffic violations. Schedule your consultation to learn more. Call 847-253-3400 today.

Sources:

http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/lake-county-news-sun/news/ct-lns-holiday-dui-patrols-st-0522-20150521-story.html

http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/skokie/news/ct-nhs-distracted-driving-enforcement-results-tl-0601-20170525-story.html